“Mary McCormack is a rare blend of skilled writer, inspired teacher, dedicated mentor, and collaborative colleague. Her courses in haiku offer guidance to a range of beginning and
experienced writers, along with encouragement for those who simply wish to read with greater appreciation. Although I’ve published in several genres, her knowledge of haiku has deepened my own immeasurably, and she regularly exposes her students to an adventurous range of work.
As a teacher, McCormack has been consistently thoughtful, attentive, and well prepared. She strengthens confidence in finding one’s voice through practice and critique. The tone of her class is warm and encouraging, without sacrificing rigor. For several years we have met in person and online—both formats comprising a smooth delivery of information and response to our drafts.
Mary answers email questions quickly outside of class time, giving valuable feedback. Because of the learning environment she has created, I plan to continue working with her as long as possible.
As a writer with 4 books and more on the horizon, Mary McCormack’s haiku will make public readings or private workshops a deeply engaging experience. She’s both open-minded and open-hearted in delivery and discussion. And because she reads so widely, Mary can also respond to questions with context for a broad spectrum of listeners. She speaks thoughtfully and inclusively—a guide along the many pathways of haiku.”
-Betsy Hearne
“Mary has taught Fantasy and Haiku writing workshops for teens at our library for over 10 years. She teaches with a combination of heart, intelligence, and creativity. She always listens and turns even the shyest of teens into vocal participants. Her love of writing and her love of teaching are evident in the way she respects each and every student.
No matter the size of the group, or the level of experience, Mary makes the teens feel heard and supported. She is incredibly adept at changing workshops on the fly in order to fit the needs of the participants.
Even years after taking one of her workshops, teens still remember her and ask when she will be offering another.”
-Samantha F.
“Mary McCormack is a gifted and dedicated teacher, who communicates a love of teaching in every lesson. She is also a gifted and dedicated writer, and her joy and passion for writing are inspiring - and contagious! Despite her many accomplishments, she is humble, gracious, and approachable. She meets me at my level, and values and encourages my beginning efforts, while also taking me seriously as a writer, balancing praise with honest ideas for improvement. Her writing exercises are thoughtful and interesting. She is very knowledgeable about writing, without being rigid, and will follow or break a rule when it serves a good purpose. I have learned a lot from her, and have really grown as a writer. Mary also happens to be an exceptionally kind person. It's a pleasure to be her student.”
-Sally Shepherd
“As a newcomer to the study and practice of haiku, I needed a teacher who could help guide and critique my writing to improve in the craft. Mary came highly recommended, and she has been a thoughtful, patient partner in my haiku journey. Since I began working with Mary only 6 months ago, over a dozen of my haiku have been published in leading haiku journals. Suffice it to say, she’s an excellent teacher!”
-Kathryn P. Haydon
My mind was both thrilled and expanded in a recent workshop with Mary, leading a group of vibrant participants. I experienced fresh takeaways and creative approaches to Haiku. With Mary's modern presentation, I was able to focus upon the value of each word for richest meaning, rather than crafting for syllable count. Sheer liberation! My writing group gleefully requested another workshop with Mary. Her passion and inspiration are easily spread.
-Julie I.
“I recently attended Mary McCormack’s excellent haiku workshop at Secret World Books. Her explanation of the form was clearly presented and evoked great enthusiasm from the crowd of poets attending. I particularly enjoyed hearing the variety of themes used by those participating in the event, as well as her own examples of the versatility of the poetic form.”
-Judith MK Kaufman
“Mary has a calm about her which creates a stressless learning atmosphere. She is focused on her haiku and shares her own experiences and info, including journals which might be interested in the student’s haiku submissions. This student found her calm and relaxed teaching very reassuring. Mary knows her haiku and is a caring teacher.”
-Diane W.